Richard: An architect in Florida told me that the way to make the most money as an architect was to "design" strip malls. They just need an architect to sign off, the clients don't complain much and the clients pay on time. Moreover, they are always building new ones.

On the other hand, actually designing a building to function well and look good is a very rare contract.

An architect in Florida told me that the way to make the most money as an architect was to "design" strip malls.

Which are, generally speaking, paid for by a municipal "Redevelopment Agencies" under the guise of eliminating blight, or upgrading a business district, etc. Which, generally speaking, is why occupancy rates can be so dismal. How many store fronts are vacant in the one near you?

But then, when the government is paying for your building, having a few vacancies isn't too disconcerting ... after all, it isn't your investment that isn't being returned. Our tax dollars at work...